Optical absolute encoder
Hengstler ACURO AD36 optical absolute encoder
Motor feedback absolute encoder with 22-bit single-turn and 12-bit geared optical multi-turn resolution, SSI or BiSS plus 1 Vpp sine/cosine, an 8 mm through hollow shaft and 10,000 rpm continuous; it is installation compatible with a size 15 resolver.
Key specifications
| Speed (max) | 10,000 rpm |
|---|---|
| Bore (max) | 8 mm |
| Temperature | -40–120 °C |
| Data / bus | SSI, BiSS |
| Resolution (max) | 34 bit |
| Resolution | 22 bit single-turn + 12 bit multi-turn (geared optical multi-turn) |
| Analogue output | sine/cosine 1 Vpp, 500 kHz bandwidth |
| Mounting | installation compatible with resolver size 15 |
Summarised in our own words from Ralliant Corporation (Hengstler GmbH, part of Hengstler-Dynapar)'s published data; series maxima, individual models vary. Last checked 2026-10-30. Source 1
Notes on this data
Figures from part AD36/1222AF.0RBV2; IP rating and supply voltage not stated on the page.
Specify Motion is not affiliated with Ralliant Corporation (Hengstler GmbH, part of Hengstler-Dynapar). Hengstler and ACURO AD36 are used only to identify the product. Comparisons use published figures; always confirm against the current datasheet.
Typical applications
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Our experienced engineers are on hand, ready to help with your project. Whether you need the Hengstler ACURO AD36 itself, help sourcing it, or a modified or custom design built around your load, speed and space, tell us what the machine has to do and we'll come back with the right option.
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- Complete axis: motor, drive, gearing and feedback matched together
What an optical absolute encoder is
An optical absolute encoder reads a unique code pattern on a disc or scale, so every position has its own digital value and position is known immediately at power-up. Single-turn encoders give position within one revolution; multi-turn encoders also count revolutions using gears or electronic counters. Position is sent over a serial interface such as SSI or BiSS, a manufacturer-specific protocol, or a fieldbus. Optical scanning gives high resolution, typically 17 bits per revolution or more in servo encoders, and good accuracy.
When engineers choose an optical absolute encoder
Choose an optical absolute encoder where knowing position at power-up matters, such as robots, machine tools, multi-axis machines and axes that cannot be homed safely. It removes homing routines and supports safety functions. The trade-offs are cost, interface compatibility and contamination sensitivity. Battery-backed multi-turn types need battery maintenance; gear or energy-harvesting types avoid that. In very dirty environments, magnetic or inductive absolute encoders may suit better.
How to specify the Hengstler ACURO AD36
Send these with your enquiry and an engineer can confirm the right ACURO AD36 variant or an equivalent:
- Single-turn resolution (bits)
- Multi-turn range (revolutions)
- Interface: SSI, BiSS, proprietary serial or fieldbus
- Accuracy (arcsec)
- Shaft or hollow shaft size (mm)
- Speed (rpm)
- Environment and safety rating
Common mistakes to avoid
- Choosing an interface the drive does not support
- Forgetting battery maintenance on battery-backed multi-turn types
- Confusing resolution with accuracy
- Ignoring cable length limits for serial interfaces
Hengstler ACURO AD36: frequently asked questions
What is the Hengstler ACURO AD36?
Motor feedback absolute encoder with 22-bit single-turn and 12-bit geared optical multi-turn resolution, SSI or BiSS plus 1 Vpp sine/cosine, an 8 mm through hollow shaft and 10,000 rpm continuous; it is installation compatible with a size 15 resolver. Published series figures include speed 10,000 rpm, bore 8 mm, temperature -40 °C, temperature 120 °C. It is made by Ralliant Corporation (Hengstler GmbH, part of Hengstler-Dynapar); Specify Motion can help source it or propose an equivalent.
Who makes the Hengstler ACURO AD36?
The Hengstler ACURO AD36 is made by Hengstler (Ralliant Corporation (Hengstler GmbH, part of Hengstler-Dynapar)) and is listed here for engineers comparing options. Specify Motion is not affiliated with Ralliant Corporation (Hengstler GmbH, part of Hengstler-Dynapar); brand names are used only to identify the product.
What is the speed of the Hengstler ACURO AD36?
The published series maximum speed is 10,000 rpm. Individual models and sizes in the ACURO AD36 range vary, so check the exact variant against your duty cycle, mounting and environment, or ask our engineers to confirm the right size for you.
Is there an alternative to the Hengstler ACURO AD36?
Yes. Our engineers can propose an equivalent built around your load, speed and environment. An engineer confirms the fit against your application before recommending anything.
What is the difference between single-turn and multi-turn absolute encoders?
A single-turn absolute encoder knows its angle within one revolution. A multi-turn absolute encoder also counts complete revolutions, so it knows total position over many turns even after power loss. Multi-turn encoders avoid homing on axes driven through screws or gears.
Which interface should an absolute encoder use?
Use the interface supported by the drive or controller. SSI is simple and widely supported, BiSS-C is an open bidirectional protocol, and several manufacturer-specific protocols are common on machine tools and servo drives. Fieldbus encoders suit PLC networks. Check cable lengths and update rates for the control loop.
Further reading: Absolute vs incremental encoders · How to select an encoder · Encoders and feedback
Other optical absolute encoder series
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